The pistol was dependable on a semiautomatic setting, firing in short bursts. The pistol could also be fired fully automatic, but the power would be drained in 20 seconds.[1][6] Its high rate of fire and reasonable accuracy made it ideal for medium-range combat.[7]

The Death Star Troopers that Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, and Chewbacca attacked on the First Death Star were armed with DH-17 blasters but were killed when Chewbacca pretended to get loose from Han and Luke and started a chaotic battle in the detention center.

Approximately three and a half years later, the DH-17 was used by rebel soldiers in the defense of Echo Base during the Battle of Hoth.[9]